A landmark study has revealed that British Army bomb disposal veterans are up to five times more likely to develop bladder cancer than the general public, underscoring urgent concerns about hazardous occupational exposure to explosives.
30.07.2025
Published in BJU International and presented at the European Association of Urology Annual Congress, the research has prompted calls for increased awareness, targeted screenings, and policy change.
Researchers from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), University of Birmingham, King’s College London, University of Glasgow, and South Wales NHS Trust surveyed approximately 700 veterans who served in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) roles since 1970, representing about 30% of eligible veterans. Of the 203 veterans who provided detailed responses, the study revealed:
These findings suggest a strong link between prolonged exposure to certain explosives and bladder cancer, offering critical evidence for solicitors pursuing occupational disease claims.
Dr. Gareth Collett CBE, study lead and Executive Director at UWTSD’s Wales Institute for Science and Art, stated:
“This research aims to raise awareness among veterans, general practitioners, and legal professionals, while ensuring better protection for those still serving. Our findings indicate a clear association between exposure to certain explosives and bladder cancer, which could inform future claims and drive policy changes to save lives.”
Professor Rik Bryan, Director of the Bladder Cancer Research Centre at the University of Birmingham, added:
“Despite the modest sample size, this study provides a compelling signal that ammunition technicians face a significantly elevated risk of bladder cancer due to regular exposure to specific explosives. Further investigation is essential to quantify this risk and support legal and medical interventions.”
The study was inspired by Dr. Collett’s own bladder cancer diagnosis and discussions with fellow former ammunition technicians, many of whom reported similar diagnoses. David Young, a former EOD staff sergeant, shared that his bladder cancer, which he attributes to exposure to chemicals like nitrobenzene without adequate protective equipment in the 1970s, led to extensive surgery and lifelong health challenges. Such accounts are increasingly common as more veterans come forward, strengthening the case for occupational injury claims.
The Felix Fund, a UK charity supporting serving and retired bomb disposal personnel, plays a vital role in providing financial, mental health, and advocacy support. As new health risks like bladder cancer emerge, the charity’s work ensures veterans receive comprehensive care and recognition of occupational hazards. Solicitors can collaborate with organisations like the Felix Fund to better understand veterans’ experiences and strengthen legal cases.
To address this issue, researchers and advocates recommend:
With over 10,500 people diagnosed with bladder cancer annually in the UK, a significant portion of cases among veterans may be linked to explosive exposure [2]. Professor Mieke Van Hemelrijck from King’s College London noted:
“Identifying the link between explosive exposure and bladder cancer enables us to advocate for improved screening, better patient care, and policies that support veterans’ long-term health, while also informing legal strategies for compensation.”
At Finch Consulting, we specialise in supporting our clients by providing consulting and expert witness services for occupational health worker health issues. This study underscores the need for thorough investigations into workplace exposures and their long-term health impacts. Our team can assist by evaluating historical exposure data, assessing compliance with health and safety regulations, and providing expert opinion delivering expert reports.
References
[1] Collett, G., et al. (2025). BJU International. Available at: https://pure-oai.bham.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/263891964/BJU_International_-_2025_-_Collett_-_Occupational_incidence_of_bladder_cancer_amongst_veteran_ammunition_technicians_of_the.pdf
[2] Cancer Research UK. (2025). Bladder Cancer Statistics. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/bladder-cancer
Felix Fund: https://felixfund.org.uk/
